I read the ludicrous claim made by Dave Blackwell that he was “deliberately ignored from speaking” at the meeting about the fire cuts on Canvey.

Mr Blackwell had every opportunity to speak. I attended both of the sessions at Smallgains last Saturday and with many others; managed to both speak and get a point across to the Essex Fire Authority team that what they propose is unacceptable.

Mr Blackwell claims the meeting was “political”. Sure, as you would expect key politicians were in the room, including our MP, Rebecca Harris and Councillor Ray Howard - both of whom spoke eloquently and with passion, but totally without political bias.

I am sure many where expecting a meaningful contribution from Mr Blackwell, but instead will feel appalled he has instead attempted to turn it into an issue purely about himself.

CHAS MUMFORD, ZELHAM DRIVE, CANVEY